US$17 million US grant supports Colombo Port modernization
Colombo, Oct. 27 (Daily Mirror) - The United States has provided a grant of US$17 million to support the modernization of the Colombo Port, as Sri Lanka continues efforts to strengthen its maritime infrastructure and improve port operations.
The grant was highlighted at a regional workshop on the future of maritime trade held in Colombo today (27), organized by the United States Embassy in Sri Lanka.
The workshop, held under the theme “Enhancing Maritime Services, Information Exchange Systems, and Port Community Systems,” brought together regional port sector decision-makers and 11 American technology companies to explore technological solutions for the maritime industry.
The initiative aims to showcase American innovations that can improve operational efficiency, accelerate cargo handling, reduce shipping costs and strengthen supply chains.
The discussions also seek to identify commercial opportunities for US companies across the Indian Ocean region while supporting the modernization of regional ports.
Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodituwakku, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Eric Meyer and Sri Lanka Ports Authority Chairman Dr. Parakrama Dissanayake participated in the inauguration of the workshop.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Minister Kodituwakku stressed the importance of technological advancement alongside the expansion of port infrastructure.
He said the knowledge and experience shared during the workshop would help identify opportunities to improve port operations and support Sri Lanka's efforts to develop an efficient and internationally competitive maritime sector.
The Government remains committed to strengthening Sri Lanka's role in global supply chains and promoting sustainable economic development through the modernization of its ports.
.jpg)